It’s first class: Doors open at Waterhead Academy

A new £25m school has opened its doors to pupils. Waterhead Academy will see former Counthill and Breezehill pupils join forces to learn under one roof. The school, on the former Orb Mill site off Huddersfield Road, boasts state-of-the-art facilities including outdoor classrooms, a drama studio and a 300-seat auditorium.

A new £25m school has opened its doors to pupils. Waterhead Academy will see former Counthill and Breezehill pupils join forces to learn under one roof.

The school, on the former Orb Mill site off Huddersfield Road, boasts state-of-the-art facilities including outdoor classrooms, a drama studio and a 300-seat auditorium.

There is also a fully equipped TV studio that will air a school news programme every week and new sports pitches and equipment which can be used by the public too.

Students were given their first glimpse of the school on Wednesday when those in Years 10 and 11 started their lessons. The rest of the pupils will move in over the next few days.

Principal Nigel McQuoid said: "The vision for Waterhead Academy is evolving. We are determined to maximise every student’s personal attainment. As we move into a new phase in our development the opportunities are huge for students to achieve their personal best through hard work, dedication and respect for self and others."

Counthill and Breezehill became Waterhead Academy two years ago but continued to operate in their existing sites until the new building was complete.

The academy is sponsored by Oldham College which sets the vision and ethos of the school and is responsible for appointing the governing body and senior staff.

Floodlit football pitches, a BMX track, multi-use games area, dance studio, sports hall and fully-equipped gym have also been built at the academy. It will also keep its Counthill Road sports centre which is undergoing a £100,000 revamp.

Shauna Dixon, chairwoman of governors, said: "We are thrilled with the new school and its impact will be felt for generations to come."